Vacuum Mixer — Charles Ross DPM-2 Double Planetary Mixer w/ DS-2 Discharge (Bidservice)

How Much Does Charles Ross DPM-2 Double Planetary Mixer w/ DS-2 Discharge System Cost in 2026?

As of July 2026, the Charles Ross DPM-2 Double Planetary Mixer with DS-2 Discharge System is priced in the range of $21,500 for a used, refurbished unit in condition grade B. This price is typically sourced from vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology, who specialize in high-quality used and refurbished industrial equipment. Compared to a new unit, which can cost upwards of $50,000, this represents a savings of 40–60%.

Condition tiers can affect pricing slightly. Units in condition grade A (like those with full calibration and less than 10,000 operating hours) may command a premium of 10–15%, while grade C units (over 15,000 hours, with wear on seals or motor components) may be available for as low as $19,000. However, buying a lower-grade unit increases the risk of unplanned downtime—up to 50 hours annually in some cases—which can cost a mid-sized fab $10,000+ in lost production.

It’s also important to note that while the DPM-2 is a durable unit, its performance degrades after 15,000–20,000 mixing cycles. Always verify the seller has performed a full vacuum integrity test and motor load test before purchase.

Charles Ross DPM-2 Double Planetary Mixer w/ DS-2 Discharge System Specifications and Compatible Tools

The Charles Ross DPM-2 is a dual-axis, double planetary mixer designed for high-precision mixing under vacuum. It typically features a 20-liter working volume, a 1200 RPM planetary speed, and a 600 RPM secondary speed. The unit is commonly rated for a vacuum level of 0.1 Torr and is typically used in semiconductor and materials processing applications where consistency and purity are critical.

This mixer is typically found in facilities using it with older coating or deposition systems, though it is not tied to a specific tool model. It is generally compatible with systems from the 2000–2010 era, but it is not compatible with newer high-vacuum deposition systems that require ISO 100-class cleanrooms. Specifically, it is not compatible with the Charles Ross DPM-4 due to differences in the discharge system interface.

Failure to verify vacuum integrity or mixing consistency can lead to batch failures—commonly costing $5,000–$10,000 per incident. Always confirm the unit has been recalibrated and tested for vacuum performance and mixing uniformity before deployment.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Charles Ross DPM-2 Double Planetary Mixer w/ DS-2 Discharge System in 2026

1. Verify Operating Hours and Age: Units over 15,000 cycles or more than 15 years old may require extensive maintenance. Reject any unit over 20 years old or with more than 20,000 cycles.

2. Perform a Vacuum Integrity Test: Use a helium leak detector to confirm the unit can hold a vacuum of 0.1 Torr or better. A leaky system can lead to contamination and batch failures.

3. Check Motor and Gearbox Wear: Look for signs of overheating or lubrication degradation. Run a motor load test to ensure it can handle full load without stalling. A failed motor can cost $3,000–$5,000 to replace.

4. Inspect Seals and Valves: The DS-2 discharge system must have intact and functional valves. Worn or cracked seals are a common failure point and can lead to downtime of 10–20 hours for replacement.

5. Request a Full Calibration Report: Units must be recalibrated for mixing speed and vacuum levels. A unit missing this can result in inconsistent batches and rework costs of $2,000 per incident.

Reject any unit that has not been serviced in the last 3–5 years or that lacks full documentation. A poorly maintained unit can cause production delays and cost up to $15,000 in lost output.

FAQ

Q: How does the Charles Ross DPM-2 compare to the DPM-4?
A: The DPM-4 has a larger mixing chamber (typically 50 liters vs. 20 liters) and is designed for higher vacuum levels (0.01 Torr vs. 0.1 Torr). The DPM-2 is better suited for smaller batches and older systems. The DPM-4 is not compatible with the DS-2 discharge system.

Q: Can I use the DPM-2 with a 2015 or newer deposition system?
A: Only if the system is not ISO 100-class or requires ultra-high vacuum. The DPM-2 is not compatible with systems requiring vacuum levels below 0.05 Torr. Using it in such systems can lead to contamination and downtime of 10–15 hours.

Q: How long can I expect the DPM-2 to last with regular maintenance?
A: With proper maintenance every 5,000 cycles, the DPM-2 can last 10–15 years. Beyond 15,000 cycles, expect to replace seals, valves, and possibly the motor. Failure to maintain can reduce lifespan by 30–50%.

Q: Should I buy a unit with more than 15,000 cycles?
A: Only if the unit has been fully overhauled and includes new seals, bearings, and motor. Units over 15,000 cycles without overhaul are likely to fail within 6–12 months, costing $4,000–$7,000 in repairs.

Q: What’s the average lead time for a used DPM-2?
A: 2–4 weeks after sourcing, assuming the unit is in condition grade B and has been recently refurbished. Lead times can extend to 6–8 weeks for grade C units requiring overhaul.